Right Side Pelvic Pain

Pelvic pain on the right side can be caused due to disorders of the stomach or the reproductive system. Find information about its potential causes and treatment methods in this article.

HealthHearty Staff

Last Updated: Apr 23, 2018

The pelvis is a large structure present at the lower part of the abdomen. The pelvic or the hip girdle consists of bones that protect intestines, bladder and reproductive organs in human beings. In women, the pelvic girdle also protects the uterus. Abnormalities and disorders of these organs or digestive organs can lead to pain in the pelvic region. The pain may or may not be accompanied by other symptoms.

Causes The pain in pelvic region can sometimes travel to the abdomen, back or to the thigh. Secondly, sometimes, you may also experience the pain when the bladder is full. It is essential to identify the exact location and nature of the pain in order to get the underlying condition diagnosed properly. This condition is more common in women than in men as the uterus is located in that region in women.

Ectopic Pregnancy

This is one of the significant causes of pelvic pain in women. Ectopic pregnancy is an abnormality or complication in pregnancy that occurs when the fertilized egg is placed in any other place, than the uterine wall. The exact cause of ectopic pregnancy is unknown, but, it can be life-threatening, if not diagnosed and treated immediately.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common term used to describe a variety of gastric diseases and disorders. The precise cause of IBS is not known, however, it is believed that sensitivity of the bowel muscles can lead to this disease. Muscle cramps, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal and pelvic pain are the symptoms of IBS.

Menstrual Cramps

Menstrual or period cramps is the most common cause of left and right side pelvic pain in women. Ovulation and the changes that take place inside the uterus lead to menstrual cramps. The pain is of varying type, and is usually accompanied with abdominal or back pain.

Pelvic Inflammatory Disease

Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is an infection in the ovary, fallopian tube, or the uterus. The infection is caused by the bacteria that cause sexual transmitted diseases (STD) like gonorrhea and chlamydia. Apart from pelvic pain; abdominal pain, irregular menstrual bleeding and vaginal discharge are the signs and symptoms of PID.

Prostatitis

Prostatitis causes pelvic pain on the right side in men. It is the inflammation of the prostate gland caused by viral or bacterial infection. Pain in the pelvic region, lower back and lower abdomen are the symptoms of prostatitis. Sometimes, it can turn chronic and result into a condition known as chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CPPS) or chronic bacterial prostatitis.

Apart from these, ovarian cysts, uterine fibroids, pregnancy can be the potential causes of pain in right side of pelvic girdle in women. On the other hand, hemorrhoids, varicoceles, kidney disorders, etc. can cause pelvic pain on lower right side in men. If one observes throbbing or sharp pelvic pain for a long time, he / she should consult the doctor immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.

TreatmentAs mentioned above, there can be several serious causes of pelvic pain on right side. But, one should remember that all these causes can be effectively treated. Treatment of ectopic pregnancy depends on the location of the egg and also the condition of the woman. Laparoscopy and surgery are two major treatment methods used to treat ectopic pregnancy. Treatment of chronic bacterial prostatitis depends on its severity. However, antibiotics are the only effective means of treating it.

Secondly, symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome can be treated by medications. However, there is no permanent cure to it. You need to make dietary changes to get relief from it. Menstrual cramps can be treated by taking pain killers and plenty of rest. Pelvic inflammatory disease in women can be treated with the help of antibiotics. Sometimes, if PID is diagnosed during pregnancy, the woman may require hospitalization. Physical therapy can also help in treating pelvic pain.

Nearly all causes of pelvic pain can be treated completely. You just need to consult the doctor right away and explain the symptoms clearly. Apart from the regular treatment methods, relaxation techniques are also beneficial for getting rid of pelvic pain. Lastly, note that this write-up is not to be used as a substitute for proper medical consultation and guidance. Take care!